Around 1,000 mourners, including Mr David Trimble, attended the funeral of South Antrim Ulster Unionist MP Mr Clifford Forsythe at the weekend. Pro- and anti-agreement wings of the party were strongly represented at the service at St Patrick's Parish Church in Templepatrick, Co Antrim, on Saturday.
Mr Forsythe (70), who was opposed to the Belfast Agreement, died of a heart attack and brain haemorrhage last Thursday.
A bitter battle is expected in the UUP for the nomination to the seat. A former DUP MP, the Rev Willie McCrea, might also contest the seat. Mr Forsythe had represented South Antrim for 17 years. He had a 16,000 majority in the 1997 general election.
Mr Trimble, his deputy, Mr John Taylor, and UUP security spokesman Mr Ken Maginnis, all helped carry his coffin. The DUP leader, the Rev Ian Paisley, and Mr Eddie McGrady of the SDLP, were also present.
Former UUP leader Lord Molyneaux delivered a eulogy at the service. He described Mr Forsythe as an "honest and modest" man who contributed much to the North.
"We can testify to the lasting benefits of so many of his achievements which will become even more obvious as legislation continues to be implemented. The motivations which were the driving force behind those achievements were those of an honest man who inspired trust in all with whom he worked."
Mr Forsthye is survived by his wife Lillian and his five children from two marriages. His brother, Canon Leslie Forstye, officiated at the service. Also present was the Church of Ireland Bishop of Connor, the Right Rev James Moore. The Forsythe family had asked the media to stay away from the low-key service and burial in Antrim Cemetery.